Inter Milan star Andy Diouf went from strength to strength in last night’s Coppa Italia quarter-final win over Torino.

According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInterNews, the French midfielder seized the opportunity to shine in a rare midfield start.

Strapped for midfield options amid a full-blown injury crisis, Cristian Chivu opted to start Diouf ahead of Petar Sucic and Piotr Zielinski.

Indeed, Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu remain on the sidelines and may only return for the Derby d’Italia clash against Juventus.

Meanwhile, Zielinski desperately needed some rest after a string of intense fixtures.

Andy Diouf Shines in Inter Milan 2-1 Torino Win

Andy Diouf Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 03: Andy Diouf of FC Internazionale Milano scores his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia round of 16 match between FC Internazionale and Venezia FC at San Siro Stadium on December 03, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

First-team opportunities proved hard to come by for Andy Diouf this season, especially in his natural position.

Despite joining the club as a box-to-box midfielder, he has spent most of his San Siro career playing on the wing.

However, Chivu showed faith in the 22-year-old by deploying him in his preferred central role.

Meanwhile, Diouf repaid the manager’s trust with his third goal of the season.

Furthermore, he was able to influence the game more effectively and showcase his all-around abilities.